Pictured L to R: Kiss Country’s Dina B, SFCM’s Mike C, Kiss Country’s Darlene Evans – (photo-bombed by her husband Larry Evans)
Entercom Communications last week announced massive layoffs, salary reductions, and benefits cuts to their on-air staff across the country in a desperate cost-cutting measure, as the radio industry’s recent struggles to survive have been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sadly, those cuts include the termination of the beloved Darlene Evans of 99.9 Kiss Country in Miami. Darlene, affectionately known as the “Mid-Day Mom” with her “Dar’s Diner” show, has been a mainstay for 30+ years at Kiss Country. Unlike many DJ’s who are in it for the fame, Dar was in it for the love of country music. Not only does she love classic country music, she was also a champion for the local artists we work with. While handcuffed by the politics of the radio business, she showed as much love as she could with the constraints she had to work under.
Here is her statement regarding her departure:
UHH… So hard to find the words…
With a heavy heart, I was informed Thursday…that my time at Kiss Country 99.9 has come to an end after 32 years. It was not my choice to say goodbye at this time. In 1988…as a 29 year old girl…I sent Bob McKay my aircheck while working in Atlanta. Pregnant and starting my family…he gave me the great news that ultimately changed my life and put me on the air at 99.9 Kiss FM. (By the way, I thanked him yesterday for hiring me)….This has been a great ride! I remember sharing so many stories of my children as they grew up. Yep…your kids and my kids. I’ve met people throughout my career whose friendships will last a lifetime. Country music is truly my heart and soul. It’s not just a job to me..it’s who I am. I’m so appreciative of everyone who has listened through the years and I’m forever grateful. Sooo many memories!!! With tears in my eyes… my ride with Kiss Country 999 has officially come to an end. Thank you everyone for being such loyal listeners. I really do love you. Please stay in touch on social media!
xo Dar… your midday mom ❤️
We will miss hearing her voice on our local airwaves. Dar, you have an open invite to use our platform anytime you want to use it!
A look at the Kiss Country website shows that Dina B has been moved to the morning show with TC, which means June Knight may have also been a victim of the layoffs. We are still working to confirm her departure. It looks like after the local morning show, they are shifting to nationally syndicated programming for the rest of the day, which is a huge disappointment and ruins Entercoms claims of “Staying Local!”
UPDATED: We have confirmed that June Knight was also laid off as part of these changes.